1. Allow the oil to drain from the VTC system by not starting the engine for at least six hours.

2. Start the cold engine and immediately listen for a loud rattle. If the loud rattle is heard and lasts for about two seconds, proceed with the repair procedure. Refer to pages 6-30 and 6-31 of the 2008-2009 Accord Service Manual, or online, enter keywords VTC ACT, and select the appropriate engine’s VTC Actuator, Exhaust Camshaft Sprocket Replacement from the list.

NOTE: Because a new VTC actuator comes in its unlocked position, you don’t need to perform Step 3 of the VTC actuator replacement procedure, unless the VTC actuator locks during handling. A VTC actuator must be installed in its unlocked position to avoid damaging its internal locking pin.

On cold start-up, listen for a loud engine rattle that lasts for about two seconds.